Moving into a complex or estate: the paperwork nobody warns you about

Move permits, lift bookings, contractor registration and time windows. Get these wrong and your truck sits at the boom.

14 June 2026 · 5 min read · Just In Time Removals

Sectional title comes with rules

Most Gauteng complexes and estates have conduct rules that govern moving days — and they are enforced. The three that catch people are a written move permit from the managing agent, a booked lift or service entrance slot, and permitted hours, which are frequently 08:00 to 17:00 on weekdays only.

Get the permit two weeks ahead

Managing agents typically want the permit request in writing at least seven days before, along with the removal company's details and often proof of public liability insurance. We supply that pack as standard — just tell us who to send it to when you book.

Lifts must be booked and protected

In a high-rise, the goods lift is booked by the hour and usually needs to be padded before use. If someone else booked it for your slot, your crew stands still and you pay for the time. Confirm the booking again 48 hours before, in writing.

Levy clearance can block the move-out

Some bodies corporate will not authorise a move-out until the levy account is settled and a clearance certificate issued. This is between you and the managing agent, but it needs to be resolved days ahead, not on the morning.

Estate security wants names in advance

Gated estates usually require the crew list — full names and ID numbers — plus the vehicle registration, submitted 24 to 48 hours ahead. Some also require every crew member to be registered as a contractor at the gate, which adds twenty minutes on arrival if you have not pre-loaded it.

Know the truck limit

Ask the managing agent for the maximum vehicle length and height allowed through the boom and in the basement. It is common for a full-size removal truck to be refused entry, which means shuttling with a smaller vehicle. Knowing this before quoting is much cheaper than discovering it on the day.